By: Sam Chan
The movie “Elvis” starts with Baz Luhrmann’s motto: “A life lived in fear is a life half lived.”
This motto is Baz Luhrmann’s key to Elvis Presley.
Elvis lived a full life because he wasn’t afraid.
He bravely shook his hips, gyrated his pelvis, and sang rock-and-roll.
But Elvis also died at 42. A half life lived. Literally. “Caught in a trap.”
Elvis lived in fear of not performing. A fear of not being loved.
The opposite of fear isn’t bravery. The opposite of fear is love.
If we’re loved, then we’re set free from fear.
In the bible, many times, Jesus says, “Don’t be afraid.”
If we’re loved by Jesus we won’t have a life half lived. Instead, Jesus promises eternal life. An over-filling life! Loved many times over.
But sadly, there’s no promise of blue suede shoes. For that, you’re gonna have to shake your hips, rattle-and-roll.
About the Author: Sam is a theologian, preacher, author, evangelist, ethicist, cultural analyst and medical doctor.
Article supplied with thanks to Espresso Theology.
Feature image: Movie publicity